Beer of the Month: Alesmith Brewing Wee Heavy

Alesmith makes this brew all year, but strong, malty ales of its sort really come into their own in cold weather. "Wee Heavy" is the traditional name for a Scottish ale style that is something like a Gaelic cousin to bock: rich, malty and viscous with lots of caramel flavors, relatively low in hops.

This one pours medium brown with a tan head. The nose is milk chocolate crossed with carob, plus something grainy or grassy. The palate is molasses-sweet with just a hint of hops, and the finish is long and sweet. Think of it as liquid dessert with a punch (10% alcohol by volume).